Now that summer classes have ended, I decided to take a little break before starting my new journey. On this little vacation, I drove to California and visited Disneyland. Coming to Disneyland is very nostalgic. Growing up, my family frequently visited the park and there were so many good memories attached with this park. While I do not visit often, the following list is a guide that I like to use every time I visit. I find this guide helpful in preparing for long car rides, hikes, or day-long trips to parks in the summer:

Here is what I recommend bringing:

• Lightweight hiking backpack:
  • This is my personal favorite because it has different compartments which helped me stay organized. However, feel free to use any backpack of your choice. 
• Spray-on sunscreen:
  • The sunscreen that I recommend is the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist Sunscreen Spray Broad Spectrum SPF 70, Lightweight, Non-Greasy & Water Resistant, Oil-Free. It was easy to use and it didn’t feel heavy in the hot weather. I reapplied every 2 hours for maximum protection. 
• Travel size surface disinfectant (Lysol):
  • This was helpful for quickly disinfecting glasses used on rides and any objects that were commonly touched on the rides. 
• Travel size disinfecting wipes:
  • This was helpful for quickly wiping down the table during my meals. 
• Travel size hand wipes:
  • This was helpful if you accidentally touched something sticky on the ride. Although it is recommended to wash your hands with soap and water, the bathroom lines can be long, so while you are in line this can help. This is optional but I found it helpful in a pinch. 
• Travel size hand sanitizer:
  • This was necessary to use after each ride. 
• Water bottle(s):
  • You can bring a reusable water bottle and fill it at the park. You can also go to the grocery store and buy a bulk package of water bottles and pack them in your backpack. While the latter option is not ideal for the planet, it can be cheaper than purchasing water at the park. 
• Handheld mini fan with extra batteries:
  • I went during the summer and it was very hot and humid. The fan helped while I waited in line, so I definitely recommend this as the fans provided in the park may be more expensive. 
• Cooling towel:
  • This was helpful as it provided instant relief when I was waiting in line without shade. 
• Empty & clean gallon storage bag:
  • This is helpful if you need to store your belongings like phones for water rides or organizing your backpack. 
• Cheap flip flops/sandals:
  • This was helpful to use during the water rides and it kept my shoes and socks dry. 
• Travel size pain reliever:
  • This may be useful if you stand all day in lines and your shoulders or back start to ache. Although not necessary, it may be nice to be prepared. 
• SPF lip balm:
  • Lips can get sunburned and chapped when outside too long, so it is recommended to wear an SPF lip balm. 
• Tums/lactaid/pepto bismol:
  • This may be helpful if you decide to eat at the park. This is nice to have in case there are any emergencies. 
• Mini first-aid kit:
  • Again, this is nice to have in case there are any emergencies. 
• Poncho:
  • This is optional but highly recommended if you are going on a water ride. Another option could be to rent a locker and store your belongings there (however, it may cost you a few dollars so keep that in mind). 
• Individually packed snacks:
  • Snacks that I recommend are trail mixes (there are a variety to choose from at Target), Mott’s fruit snacks, granola bars, and protein bars. 
• Quick dry athletic shorts and shirt:
  • This is optional but very nice if you plan on getting on a water ride. Choose a lightweight material so that they do not weigh down your backpack. 
• Freezable Lunch Bag:
  • We used the PackIt Freezable Lunch Bag. The night before I placed it in the freezer along with a water bottle/ice pack. I prepared peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, mandarin oranges, and bananas. This was helpful and cost-effective for me.